Breastfeeding Problems

   If you are breastfeeding your little one, you probably are already familiar with some of the problems: sore nipples, wet undershirts, and engorgement. What you might not know is that breastfeeding will not always be like this. The first month of breastfeeding is by far the worst, but if you hang in there, you and your baby will reap the rewards.

When your baby is born, your body produces a small amount of highly caloric milk known as colostrum. This colostrum is hugely important for the baby because it contains antibodies that will help build your baby's immune system. After the first 3-6 days your milk will begin to come in. Your breasts may become engorged as the milk your body produces is more than your baby is capable of drinking. Don't worry! Your milk supply is based on supply and demand. If your baby isn't demanding more milk, your body will make less to suit your individual infant's needs. If you are really uncomfortable, try pumping a small amount of milk to relieve the pressure. Just be careful not to pump too much or your body will assume the baby is taking that much milk and it will continue to make the same amount. Tylenol is also effective at taking the edge off of your pain. If your milk supply still isn't in after 5-6 days, contact your pediatrician to  determine if there is a problem.

 Your new baby should be nursing every 2-3 hours the first few weeks of life, and all of that sucking can lead to sore and cracked nipples. If you experience any of these symptoms, invest in a large tube of Lanolin and apply them to your nipples after your baby nurses. If your nipples are bleeding, you might consider using an inexpensive nipple shield that can be purchased at Target or Walgreens. A nipple shield is a small silicon nipple that is placed over the nipple as protection when the baby nurses.

Once the initial month is over, breastfeeding begins to get easier. Your body has adjusted to your infant's needs with remarkable precision, tailoring its' contents to nourish your baby exclusively. Many women even stop leaking milk after the first few months and can stop wearing nursing pads.

Babies get more efficient as well. After months of practice, some babies can eat in less than 10-15 minutes and without spilling a drop. My children can nurse in under 7 minutes the majority of the time. I can't even make and warm a bottle in that time!

Around the 4-6 month mark many parents begin to introduce solid foods, which means most babies will consume less milk. It is not uncommon to only nurse a 6 month old 4-5 times a day! Once a baby is on all solid foods around 9 months, many women only nurse 3 times a day--morning, naptime, and dinner.

If you are in the beginning phase of breastfeeding I applaud you for your desire to give your baby the best and I encourage you to hang in there. Breastfeeding is a remarkable experience that unfortunately many mothers don't get to be a part of because they give up on it too soon. If you are having problems breastfeeding or just need support contact your local la leche league organization, or visit their website at: www.llli.org



Sources:
www.llli.org
www.breastfeedingbasics.com


Legal disclaimer:
Information given can not be construed as medical advice. Please check with your health care provider when making decisions regarding you or your child's health care.